Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has launched a $100,000 online portal to automate imports inspection and clearance expected to save traders time and money by providing an easy access to information, quicker lodging and approval of applications online.
Traders can also get import clearance certificates, easy access to various standards permits, and ease in monitoring business transactions and receive timely email notifications on the go. The portal was developed in partnership with Trade Mark East Africa.
In a speech during the portal’s launch, Uganda Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Hon. Amelia Kyambade a said;“We expect that the portal will be a tool for raising level of awareness of the traders on the regulations and procedures of import/export business. In the long term, it will assist in reducing delays in cargo clearance due to incorrect licenses or import/export procedures by the trader as well as assist UNBS achieve its mission.”
The portal is expected reduce transaction time by 20% and up to 15% reduction in indirect costs associated with subscribing for import inspection services from UNBS. UNBS is expected to generate more revenue as a result of increase importer compliance levels, streamlined processes, improved transparency and increase volumes of imported goods as a result of reduced delays.
TMEA Uganda Country Director, Ms. Allen Asiimwe said automation of other government agencies trade processes and systems is one of the critical success factors to a robust National Electronic Single Window which is part of it’s wider ICT agenda for accelerating trade in the region.